Anti-text messaging law for drivers discussed in NY
NEW YORK — Two New York lawmakers want to crack down on drivers they insist are being driven to distraction by hand-held communications technology.
According to the Associated Press, drivers caught typing, reading or sending text messages while at the wheel would face fines under the proposal being touted by Sen. Carl Marcellino, R-Syosset, and Assemblyman Felix Ortiz, D-Brooklyn.
The so-called “texting while driving” legislation would amend the New York’s current ban on cell phone use while operating a vehicle.
The proposal comes after a serious accident near Rochester, N.Y. in which cell-based text messages were sent and received by a 17-year-old driver just minutes before her car carrying four other people collided with a transport truck.
If signed into law, violators would be fined $100 for texting.
California, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin are considering similar anti texting laws.
— with files from Associated Press
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